Ultralight pilot trapped 50-60 feet up after crash in Braceville

Braceville Firefighters were called out late Wednesday to rescue the pilot of an ultralight aircraft that crashed into a tree.

The pilot was found suspended about 50 to 60 feet above the ground, according to the fire department’s social media post.

The flight had taken off from an airstrip off Route 82, headquarters for a group of paramotor and ultralight aircraft enthusiasts who call them themselves the “Flight Junkies.”

Firefighters found the pilot trapped but awake and aware. Due to the initial difficulty in reaching the pilot, a medical helicopter was requested.

The incident occurred in a heavily wooded area, a considerable distance from the road. Rescue crews cut down several trees to gain access to the victim.

Two fire department vehicles were able to reach the location because the ground was firm.

The City of Cortland Fire Department brought a ladder truck, which was fully extended, to retrieve the pilot.

  Braceville Fire Department

 After about 75 minutes at the scene, rescue workers reached the pilot, who was examined but declined to be taken to a hospital.

The Braceville Fire Department noted in its Facebook post that situations like these require specific care and equipment.